A fire broke out early Friday at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) due to shelling by Russia's heavy weapons, Ukrainian news agency Ukrinform reported, citing NPP spokesperson Andrii Tuz.

Ukraine's state emergency service said the fire started outside the station perimeter. 

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) also said it is in contact with Ukrainian authorities over the reports. 

"IAEA Director General Rafael MarianoGrossi speaks with Ukraine PM Denys Shmygal and with Ukrainian nuclear regulator and operator about serious situation at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, appeals for halt of use of force and warns of severe danger if reactors hit," the IAEA tweeted.

(With input from agencies)